The Kilgore College Electric Power Technology program will hold a Lineman’s Rodeo on Friday, Nov. 16, to showcase graduates of the eighth class to complete the Marketable Skills Certificate.

The rodeo and graduation is set for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rusk County Electric Cooperative training grounds in Henderson, located at 3162 State Highway 43 East.

The event is free and open to the public.

Five students have completed the 10-week course of study that began Sept. 10 at the KC—Henderson campus.

The rodeo will serve as a demonstration of lineworkers’ skills learned during the KC course of study.

Graduates will demonstrate pole climbing, and while at the top of the cross-arm will complete hurt man rescue and insulator changing exercises.

Anyone interested in learning about a career in the electric power technology field is encouraged to attend.

The Electric Power Technology Certificate program has attracted students from three states and throughout Texas.

Graduates earn starting salaries of $11-20 per hour.

With a large number of projected employee retirements within the next five to seven years, statewide electric distribution companies, municipalities and utility companies are expecting a large shortage of workers.

“Workers can expect a great job, great salary and great benefits,” said Danny Belcher, Coordinator of Safety and Training for Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative. “We have had several linemen work their way up to engineering, information technology and construction foremen positions. It’s a great career to pursue.”

Spring lineman courses will run from March through May of 2013.

Potential students will be able to meet instructors and ask questions at information sessions set for 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 10 and Feb. 7, 2013, in the Bert E. Woodruff Adult Education Center in Kilgore.